This page includes general CAC security information.
If you require information pertaining to visual and electronic security methods, please visit our section on CAC authentication.
Advanced technology means better security.
The next-generation CAC—which is roughly the size of a standard credit card—stores 64KB of data storage and memory on a single integrated circuit chip (ICC). This CAC technology allows for rapid authentication and enhanced security for all physical and logical access.
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificates embedded in the card enable cardholders to “sign” documents digitally, encrypt emails, and establish secure online network connections.
CAC and privacy protection.
The next-generation CAC meets or exceeds applicable privacy laws and Geneva Convention requirements. More importantly, the data it stores can only be accessed through secure CAC applications.
The information stored on a next-generation CAC cannot be accessed without:
- A Personal Identification Number (PIN)
- System access to the secure CAC applications required to interpret the data
To provide additional security, the card is:
- Issued according to sound criteria of personnel identification
- Resistant to identity fraud, tampering, counterfeiting, and exploitation
- Designed to provide an electronic means of rapid authentication
Find Out What Makes The CAC So Different
Card’s Body
Integrated circuit chip (ICC)
stores 64KB of data, including:
- PKI certificates
- Two digital fingerprints
- Digital photo
- Personal Identity Verification (PIV) certificate
- Organizational affiliation
- Agency
- Department
- Expiration date
Bar codes may store key personal information, including:
- Name
- Social Security Number
- Date of birth
- Personnel category
- Pay category
- Benefits information
- Organizational affiliation
- Pay grade
Magnetic stripe reserved for Service/Agency use.
